Step aboard Bessie, the 21' Duffy Sun Cruiser in Austin, Texas, and enjoy a relaxing private boat ride perfect for up to 10 guests. Experience incredible 360° views, a shaded canopy, and your favorite tunes on the water!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion is required, suitable for all age groups and fitness levels.
Wildlife
History
Austin’s waterfront has served as a vital hub for trade and recreation since the city’s founding in the 1830s.
Conservation
Retro Boats ATX promotes eco-friendly boating practices by using electric-powered boats that reduce water pollution and noise.
Retro Boats ATX
Step aboard Bessie, the 21' Duffy Sun Cruiser in Austin, Texas, and enjoy a relaxing private boat ride perfect for up to 10 guests. Experience incredible 360° views, a shaded canopy, and your favorite tunes on the water!
Retro Boats ATX operates retro boat rentals and guided cruises on Lady Bird Lake in Austin, Texas. The business offers a fleet of vintage 1958 vessels — including Vali IV, Glastron Fireflite, Beeline Sapphire, Lonestar Meteor, Glass Slipper, and the two classic boats Ethel and Trixie — for daily and sunset cruises that showcase the Austin skyline and waterways.
Trips accommodate small groups: most retro boats carry up to four passengers, while Blanche, a 21' Duffy Sun Cruiser, seats up to ten and includes 360° views, a shaded canopy, and a sundeck with a captain onboard to navigate. Bookings are captain-led and available as guided or private cruises on Lady Bird Lake; swimming and fishing are not allowed on these experiences.
Sunset cruises emphasize city views such as the Congress Avenue Bridge and the downtown skyline, and select boats pass near the urban bat colony beneath the bridge. One rare vessel, Edith, is a 1958 Glass Slipper — one of only twenty ever made — offering a distinctive historic experience. Retro Boats ATX emphasizes safety and authenticity by operating maintained classic boats with experienced captains to provide relaxed, nostalgic outings for families, couples, and small groups.
Reservations are accepted online and trips are suitable for birthdays, anniversaries, date nights, and small private events focused on relaxed sightseeing and vintage boating.
Location
Austin, Texas
Launches from Lady Bird Lake
Max Guests
4 / 10
Most boats seat 4; Blanche seats 10
Vintage Fleet
1958 Classics
Multiple authentic 1958 models
Rare Vessel
Glass Slipper: 1 of 20
Extremely limited production
Select a daily or sunset cruise on a 1958 classic and enjoy a captain-led vintage boating experience with memorable Austin skyline views.
Reserve Early on Weekends
Weekends fill up quickly, so book your private cruiser in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Bring Sunscreen and Hats
Even with a canopy, sun exposure is significant—protect your skin and eyes during your outing.
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Plan to arrive early for a smooth check-in and orientation before setting off on the lake.
Consider Hiring a Captain
Opting for a captain allows you to relax fully while someone else handles navigation and docking.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays during sunny Texas days on the open water.
summer
Light Jacket
Keeps you comfortable during cooler breeze and changing temperatures.
fall
Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water and improves visibility.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is key, especially during warm weather boating.